Definitions
(adjective)
honest; incorruptible
(adjective)
inexpensive
Etymology
About
Originating from an architectural context, the character "廉" was constructed with the "广" radical indicative of a building and the component "兼" serving a phonetic role, initially describing the sharp edge or corner of a hall. This physical meaning gradually extended to imply qualities of sharpness and clarity, which later transitioned into the moral domain to denote uprightness and incorruptibility. The semantic shift from a spatial reference to an ethical concept occurred over long periods, with the character's form remaining stable throughout its history, reflecting its consistent role in conveying notions of integrity and honesty in personal and official conduct.
Example Sentences Hide
这件衣服很廉价。
他是一位廉洁的官员。
政府提倡廉洁文化。
购买廉价商品可以省钱。
廉洁的作风受到人民赞扬。
如果官员不廉洁，就会失去信任。
虽然价格低廉，但质量却很好。
廉洁自律是公务员的基本要求。